Nestled in the heart of Little Italy is Tatsu, a trendy sushi and pan-Asian restaurant that's as satisfying for your mood as it is for your palate. The modern decor evokes the elements with Tatsu's bright blue and green walls, black tables, bamboo plants and illuminated, red lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The smooth R&B in the background sets the mood right for a dinner date. Tatsu's menu also works well in the dating arena, not only for the cheap prices but also when a meal of sushi isn't enough to satisfy a hungry date.
The menu offers a list of Japanese and Thai dishes including yaki soba—soba noodles with cabbage, carrots, onion and sesame, Tatsu's specialty fried rice and panang—a curry dish flavored with basil, coconut milk, jalapeno, red pepper and onions. Pricing depends on what protein you choose: tofu, chicken or beef is $8, shrimp $9, and a combo will cost you $11.
The sushi menu mellows out the spiciness of the Thai dishes with basic nigiri, maki and specialty rolls. The small-portioned rolls are all pretty simple; even the specialty maki list stay relatively tame. The sexiest roll is the American classic, the Godzilla, with shrimp tempura, scallions, spicy mayo, avocado and tempura crunch.
Tatsu won't break the bank, which is good news for sushi-addicts in the area. Rolls vary in price from $3.50 to $15 and hot entrees and appetizers are all $11 or less. Lunch specials and sushi dinner combos help keep prices in range, and the restaurant offers delivery to the area.
Centerstage Reviewer: Katie Chelminski
